Armetha (Woodall) Anthony was a trailblazer in Mississippi tennis whose impact was felt on courts across the state and beyond. A nationally ranked competitor, dedicated coach, and lifelong advocate for access to the game, she used tennis to build confidence, discipline, and opportunity for generations of players.

An accomplished athlete, Armetha ranked among the USTA Top 10 senior women nationally in singles, competing at a high level well into her seventies. Alongside her husband, Johnny, she traveled the country playing tournaments and experienced the sport on its grandest stages, including the U.S. Open and Wimbledon. Her competitive spirit was matched by her belief in tennis as a powerful teacher of life skills.

Armetha was also a beloved USTA Adult League teammate and leader. Since 2002 alone, she played on 115 teams and captained over 30 teams! Reflecting on their Sectionals championship in South Carolina, teammate Sally Thompson shared, “It was one of the most fun times we ever had!” The quote captures what so many experienced playing alongside Armetha—intense competitiveness paired with genuine joy and camaraderie.

As a coach and educator in Mississippi for nearly 40 years, Armetha led girls’ tennis programs to championship success while breaking barriers and expanding access to the sport for African-American students. Her influence extended far beyond wins and rankings. Former St. Joseph High School student Brian Lofton remembered, “Mrs. Anthony was a powerhouse of a woman: scholar, athlete, teacher, coach, mom, wife, and second mom to me and countless others.”

To her family, her impact was equally profound. Her son, Anthony, summed it up simply: “She was the absolute best!”

Armetha (Woodall) Anthony’s legacy lives on through the players she coached, the teams she strengthened, and the opportunities she created through tennis.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to junior tennis programs “In Honor of Armetha Anthony” through the Tennis Foundation of Mississippi at mstennis.com/section/donation-form. 

Tribute Wall: https://www.lakeover.com/obituaries/armetha-anthony